Lenovo might soon announce a SteamOS handheld

Lenovo is reportedly preparing to announce a handheld gaming device, the Legion Go S, that may run on SteamOS. Images shared online show two variants of the device, with the black model featuring a Steam button, suggesting compatibility with Valve's Steam Deck operating system. The white model lacks this button, indicating that Lenovo might offer both Windows and SteamOS versions. This move comes as consumer interest in Windows-based handhelds wanes, prompting manufacturers like Lenovo, Asus, and MSI to explore alternatives. Valve has recently updated its branding guidelines to include "Powered by SteamOS" hardware, signaling a potential expansion of third-party partnerships beyond Asus. The upcoming CES 2025 could showcase more SteamOS-powered devices, marking a significant shift from Valve's previous attempts with Steam Machines, which struggled due to a lack of game support on Linux. The success of the Steam Deck, which utilizes the Proton compatibility layer to run many Windows games effectively on Linux, suggests that this new initiative may have a better chance of success.

- Lenovo is set to announce a SteamOS handheld, the Legion Go S.

- The device may come in both SteamOS and Windows versions.

- Consumer interest is shifting away from Windows-based handhelds.

- Valve is expanding partnerships for SteamOS hardware ahead of CES 2025.

- The success of the Steam Deck indicates a better chance for this initiative compared to past efforts.